Bipolar disorder is a mental condition characterized by fluctuations in mood, sleep disturbances, agitation, hyperactivity and recurring bouts of depression. There is no simple fix or cure for bipolar disorder, yet maintaining good health and proper nutrition may help alleviate many of the symptoms. Consult with a licensed health professional before attempting to self-medicate.
Blood Sugar
Blood sugar imbalances are believed to play an integral role in bipolar mania. For instance, individuals taking geodon, seroquel, lamictal, abilify or risperdal as psychopharmacological treatments often show higher glucose levels during blood tests, indicating that hypoglycemia is a significant problem. According to the Merck Manual, metabolic syndrome -- or the combination of belly fat, insulin resistance and high blood sugar -- and cardiological risks associated with high cholesterol and blood pressure are common coexistent problems resulting from the antipsychotic drugs used to treat bipolar disorders.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Bipolar and the depressed individuals may also exhibit deficiencies in omega-3 fatty acids. Researchers have suggested that most people benefit from a Mediterranean diet and the supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids can alleviate some bipolar symptoms. Food for the Brain, a neuroscience website that investigates the role of behavioral nutrition, suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may work well due to their ability to build connections and receptors in the brain allowing serotonin, a neurotransmitter that induces relaxation and improved mood, to flow.
Amino Acids
Inidividuals with bipolar disorder often suffer from amino acid deficiencies. According to the online Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders, protein from amino acids such as taurine are made in the liver from cysteine and help balance moods. The bipolar's diet needs to include high-quality proteins to replenish the neurotransmitters serotonin and tryptophan. If getting adequate intake through diet is difficult, supplementation with taurine or tryptophan can reduce agitation and promote relaxation with a calming effect. Amino acid supplements should be closely supervised for interactions with psychotropic drugs.
B Vitamins
Vitamins B-6, B-12 and folate are generally deficient in those with bipolar. The "Nutrition Journal" reports that as many as 80 percent of those diagnosed with bipolar disorder also have B vitamin deficiencies and anemia. Supplementation can increase the body's own supply of lithium, a mood-regulator in the brain, and significantly improve both depressive and manic symptoms attributable to this disorder. However, it is recommended that those who wish to take doses higher than what is found in a multivitamin and mineral tablet do so under the supervision of a licensed health or holistic practitioner.
